Opinion
How AI can open up Silicon Valley to international investors
![How AI can open up Silicon Valley to international investors](https://adigitalboom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/How-AI-can-open-up-Silicon-Valley-to-international-investors-min-1.png)
Mobile apps are detecting skin cancer. Drones are delivering aid across continents. Artificial intelligence is disrupting every aspect of our lives. The venture capital world is no exception.
VCs are heading in the same direction, where AI augments human intelligence. Lately, VCs have been following more or less the same pattern. They are waiting longer to see some startup traction. But this entails seeing a significant increase in the valuation of the startup. Even worse, they could end up excluded from the next funding round. AI can change these dynamics. It can help investors find promising startups in earlier rounds, pre-traction if necessary.
This will open the door to SV. It will provide opportunities for investors and family offices from the Middle East. It will decentralize venture capital with new investors from all over the world. They may not have local expertise. But they come armed with data-driven investment decisions. The SV early-stage startup investment space may no longer be in the hands of a few.
Catching the AI wave
The VC world is changing fast. Many are exploring the rising popularity of data-driven investing. They are building their investment portfolios the Moneyball way.
A KPMG report puts total investments in Q1 this year at USD 49 billion across 2,661 global deals. The report noted that AI and Machine Learning are the center of VC attention. More companies are integrating such enabling technologies into their solutions. And more investors are becoming aware of their disruptive potential.
Data-driven VC Funds are on the rise. Key players include Correlation Ventures, SignalFire, and Google Ventures. More and more platforms are positioning themselves as trusted data providers. The go-to place for information on early-stage startups. Famous among those are CB Insights, Crunchbase, and Pitchbook.
Changing the traditional model
More VCs are using AI in their deal sourcing and selection to catch the next Airbnb or Facebook. It’s not a coincidence that SV is getting more data-hungry. Several companies are working with investors on honing data-driven decision-making. This includes Aingel, an AI startup I co-founded in 2016 with my Master of Science colleagues at NYU. It’s where we envisioned an algorithm that predicts the success of brand-new startups.
VCs are taking a more data-driven approach toward investment decisions in Silicon Valley. This is where Aingel comes in. We help investors find those diamonds in the rough. Our team of data scientists is currently using a patent-pending algorithm. They score startups and match them with ideal VCs most likely to invest in their stage and space. This will help VCs focus on the next disruptive startups. It will attract more investors to Silicon Valley. More money is poured into fewer startups, especially in the early stages.
Stepping Stone to SV
The data-driven investment models are an opportunity for new investors. They can enter, compete and succeed in Silicon Valley – a field dominated by few, big local players. Quality deal flow is important for both local and international investors. The more we use data, the better we are at finding and investing in great startups. This is before they even show traction and get popular among other investors. Our algorithms show that we can reduce portfolio risk and improve returns by 2.5x.
Data-driven investing has the potential to open up Silicon Valley to the world. This will bring in a new funding channel that can fill the fundraising void for early-stage startups. Several investors from the Middle East would love to hop on. They would not hesitate to invest in the next game-changing startups in Silicon Valley. All they need is deal flow, data, and access.
Beyond investing
Besides opening up investment opportunities here, AI is creating jobs back home. There is ongoing rhetoric about the impact of AI on unemployment. But AI can also provide global employment and cultivate future talent.
Let’s take Egypt as an example. Current data show a growing population approaching 100 million with a median age of 24. National statistics for employment in Egypt tell an interesting story. During such economic hardship, unemployment dropped 11.8% in 2017, down from 12.5% the previous year.
The country’s young tech talent can make use of remote work opportunities. They can contribute to disruptive technologies anywhere in the world. This will also reflect on their expertise and skills as they work on the latest in the tech field.
At Aingel, we are hiring around 42 data researchers based in Cairo. We tried Amazon Mechanical Turk for aggregating data. But we discovered a need for more nuanced data. Most of my remote team works on aggregating startup founders’ data. We use this data in our work at Silicon Valley with top international and US investors.
The VC world is investing in potential future disruptive startups. Our talent is setting the gears in motion and getting the job done. We hope data-driven investing will encourage VCs from the region to make it in Silicon Valley.
Amr Shady
Amr is the Co-founder and CEO of Aingel Corp., a spin-off from his research on predicting startup success at New York University. Aingel works with top Silicon Valley and international VCs to scale their deal flow sourcing and selection process. Its algorithms also help promising startups fundraise faster by identifying best-matching VCs. Aingel’s investors include Silicon Valley Bank, 500 Startups, Endure Capital, BECO Capital and OTG Ventures. Amr has over 18 years of experience in building and scaling companies. He founded TA Telecom at 22 and bootstrapped it with $50,000 to millions in revenue. He earned several international awards, including Deloitte’s Technology Fast 500 EMEA. The Financial Times also dubbed his first startup a “local hero.” Amr is a board member of Endeavor and TechWadi, two non-profits promoting entrepreneurship. He earned his MSc in Business Analytics from NYU. He graduated from Dalhousie University with a BSc in Electrical Engineering.
Creative Work
5 Best Cameras for Filmmakers in 2023
![5 Best Cameras for Filmmakers in 2023](https://adigitalboom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Sony-A7iii-1.jpg)
If you’re ready to take your filmmaking to the next level, it’s time to invest in a top-notch camera that will capture your creative vision in stunning detail. Whether you’re a budding director, a passionate documentarian, or a visual storyteller, we’ve scoured the market to bring you the crème de la crème of cameras. Get your director’s chair ready as we unveil the best cameras for digital filmmakers.
1. Sony A7 III
The Sony A7 III is a powerhouse camera that combines exceptional image quality, superb low-light performance, and incredible dynamic range. With its 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, 4K video capabilities, and impressive autofocus system, this camera is now a favorite amongst vloggers and serious filmmakers.
Price: $1,998.
2. Canon EOS R5
This beast of a camera boasts a 45-megapixel full-frame sensor, 8K video recording, and advanced image stabilization. With its lightning-fast autofocus and superb color reproduction, it’s a dream come true for filmmakers seeking unrivaled quality.
Price: $3,899.
3. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K
This compact camera punches well above its weight class. With its Super 35mm sensor, 6K resolution, and wide dynamic range, it delivers breathtaking footage that will make your audience sit up and take notice. The camera’s versatility and robust color-grading capabilities make it a top choice for filmmakers on a budget. For the size, it’s superb.
Price: $1,995.
4. Panasonic Lumix GH5
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a mirrorless camera that packs a punch. With its 20.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, 4K video at 60fps, and impressive image stabilization, it’s a reliable companion for filmmakers on the go. The camera’s rugged build and extensive video features make it a favorite among adventurous filmmakers.
Price: $1,497.95.
5. RED Komodo 6K
Ready to make a blockbuster? The RED Komodo 6K is a professional cinema camera that delivers stunning image quality and flexibility. With its compact form factor, global shutter, and 6K resolution, it’s a favorite among filmmakers aiming for cinematic perfection. While it comes with a higher price tag, its capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for severe digital filmmakers.
Price: $6,000.
With these top cameras in your arsenal, you’ll be ready to bring your cinematic visions to life. From Sony’s excellence to Canon’s innovation and Blackmagic’s affordability to RED’s unmatched quality, there’s a camera for every budget and filmmaking style. So, grab your director’s chair, gather your crew, and let your creative genius shine on the silver screen.
[Note: Prices mentioned here are approximate and subject to change. Please refer to the manufacturer’s websites for the most up-to-date pricing information.]
News
Threads: Unravelling the Spectacular Launch of the Hottest Social Media Platform
![Threads: Unravelling the Spectacular Launch of the Hottest Social Media Platform](https://adigitalboom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/meta-threads-platform-logo.jpg)
There’s been a disturbance in the force. In a world of constantly evolving social media platforms, a new contender has burst onto the scene, capturing the attention of millions and leaving a trail of excitement in its wake.
Threads, Meta’s Twitter rival, has taken the digital realm by storm, offering a refreshing and dynamic experience for users growing weary of Muskian meddling and looking for a unique social media adventure.
Let’s delve into the exhilarating launch of Threads, explore the number of users who have flocked to the platform, and discover the types of individuals we think it might attract.
A Diverse User Base Flocks to Threads
Threads has become the talk of the town. Since its much-anticipated launch, the platform has amassed 30+ million registered users worldwide, 5m reportedly arriving in the first 4 hours of operation. Industry experts predict his rapid growth will position Threads as a significant player in the digital realm, rivaling established giants such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Threads: A Haven for Digital Mavericks and Creatives
One of the most intriguing aspects of Threads is its potential to attract a diverse range of users. The platform’s unique features and captivating interface appeal to people of all ages, interests, and backgrounds. From Gen Z trendsetters to seasoned professionals seeking a fresh networking platform, Threads offers something for everyone.
Threads will quickly become a haven for digital mavericks who yearn for a distinct online experience. These early adopters thrive on innovation, eagerly embracing new technologies and platforms. Their active presence on Threads will result in a vibrant and cutting-edge community that in turn will attract more thrill seekers.
The platform will also be a magnet for creatives, drawing in artists, designers, photographers, and writers. The platform’s visually immersive nature allows users to showcase their talents and connect with like-minded individuals. We guess. Threads will become a hub of inspiration and collaboration for global artists.
Threads: The Go-To Platform for Networking Professionals
For professionals searching for fresh networking and career growth avenues, Threads will emerge as the go-to platform. Its interactive and intuitive interface enables users to build meaningful connections, exchange ideas, and explore job opportunities. The platform’s focus on fostering professional relationships differentiates it from traditional social media networks.
Amplifying Voices and Effecting Positive Change on Threads
Threads is not just about self-expression; it will also attract passionate individuals who want to make a difference. Users dedicated to social causes and activism can find a home on the platform, utilizing its extensive reach to raise awareness and mobilize communities. Threads will prove a powerful platform for amplifying voices and effecting positive change.
Setting Threads Apart: Seamlessness, User Experience, and Privacy Measures
What sets Threads apart from its competitors? Its appeal lies in combining seamless functionality with a seductive user experience. The platform’s innovative features, including dynamic threads, immersive multimedia integration, and intelligent algorithms that tailor content to individual interests, have proved a real draw. Moreover, Threads’ commitment to user privacy and data security has provided a real draw. Threads app offers fresh air in an era of data breaches and privacy concerns by prioritizing transparency and implementing robust privacy measures.
The Impact of Threads: A Force to be Reckoned With
Threads has unquestionably ignited the social media landscape. With its explosive launch, staggering user numbers, and diverse user base, the platform has proven it will be a force to be reckoned with. Whether you’re a digital maverick, creative connoisseur, networking ninja, or cause champion, Threads promises to be the reactive social media platform of choice, and its impact on the digital landscape is only set to grow. Stand by for a new world order, one connected by threads.
Opinion
What’s happening with Swvl?
![What's happening with Swvl?](https://adigitalboom.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/swvl-nasdaq.jpg)
Swvl, an Egyptian ridesharing company, has seen a significant decline in value due to financial struggles, resulting in a 99% drop in stock price year-to-date (YTD), hovering around $0.10 and a market capitalization of less than $15 million. Reported Bloomberg.
Swvl was founded in Egypt in April 2017, by Mostafa Kandil and two of his school friends, Ahmed Sabbah and Mahmoud Nouh.
The company was initially funded with $30,000 from the founders. Four months later, Swvl received an additional $500,000 in funding from the ridesharing company Careem. Originally, the company developed an app to address traffic congestion in Cairo but later shifted its focus to creating a platform for booking affordable bus trips in the city.
In 2018, Swvl completed two rounds of funding: a Series A game that raised $8 million and a Series B round between $25-35 million.
The company was valued at around $100 million during these funding rounds, which were co-led by BECO Capital, DiGAME, and Silicon Badia.
Why is Swvl falling?
Since its inception, Swvl has operated by renting buses with drivers for a monthly fee and then using them to run on fixed routes. Unlike the Uber model, which relies on marketing as it offers a marketplace to match drivers who own the cars to users who use the mobile app – they make a profit by getting a cut from the ride.
On the contrary, Swvl’s model owns the entire operation (renting the bus in advance, drivers’ salaries, and marketing for the app). This puts more cost on the company while its revenues are fixed or, most of the time, less because no bus will go complete all day, all routes.
Without going through the exact numbers, it’s evident that Swvl cannot profit with the current business model, and it’s a matter of time before the company’s cash dries out.
How can Swvl recover? Tell us in the comments below.
Inspired by: a Linkedin post by Zubair Naem.
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